SeeMe: Demonstrating that diversity sparks ideas

We need a world that works for everybody, and that means we need people from all backgrounds and experiences in STEM careers and education.

SeeMe, created by Siemens and BBC science presenter Fran Scott, is both an interactive, curriculum-based online digital workshop and a demonstration-filled stage show. Live performances of the stage show are currently on-hold, but the digital workshop is perfect during COVID times.

SeeMe celebrates cultural, ethnic, sexual, gender and ability diversity within the STEM community; discusses stereotypes and misconceptions; and, explores some of the perceived barriers to pursuing a STEM career. Ultimately it highlights how diverse teams are more likely to reach technological breakthroughs and innovation. 

SeeMe was first launched as SeeWomen on International Women’s Day 2016 as part of a unique collaboration with the Girls’ Schools Association (GSA) and state schools all around the UK. The aim of SeeWomen was to promote gender diversity in STEM industries by introducing audiences to the achievements of female leaders in STEM.  It drew attention to female role models and addressed some of the gender stereotypes and misconceptions about engineering.

But gender diversity is only part of the story.  In a world where the UK needs 203,000 people with Level 3+ engineering skills each year to meet demand, it is vital that Siemens continues to highlight role models from a diverse variety of identities and backgrounds; increasing the opportunity for young people to see and recognise people like themselves in exciting and challenging careers.